Q: What is Talcosis?




A: Talcosis refers to emboli of talc, starch, and cellulose, and are seen almost invariably in chronic intravenous drug users. When injected, talc produces a giant cell granulomatosis of the pulmonary arterioles, thats why also known as Talc granulomatosis.


Some of the oral medications such as amphetamines, methylphenidate, hydromorphone, and dextropropoxyphene are ground by drug users, mixed in liquid, and injected IV. Talc (as magnesium trisilicate), starch, and cellulose, are used as fillers in these drug and causes Talcosis. Talc and other particles reach small pulmonary arterioles and capillaries where a foreign body giant cell granulomatous reaction occurs. Chronic use causes Pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure.